Hamstring strain Injury
Hamstring Strain Injury
Hamstring strain injuries are the most common soft tissue injury presentation in high intensity running based sports. In our work with athletes from across Melbourne, hamstring strain injuries of various grades are one of the more common presentations that we encounter. Whilst hamstring injuries can often be very frustrating, the good news is the majority of hamstring strains will heal well with appropriate rehabilitation and graded return to activity. The vast majority of hamstring strains will return to full activity within four to six weeks, however there are some hamstring strain injuries that will take up to twelve weeks for full recovery.
Rehabilitation for Hamstring Strain Injury
The evidence is clear that the application of hamstring loading, and graded exposure to running based activities is effective in the return from hamstring strain injury. This means that it is important to stay moving and aim to gradually return to a level of physical activity that is comfortable even when you have had a hamstring strain activity. Outside of the very initial period of pain, complete cessation of physical activity appears to exacerbate the duration of the return to full function. With this in mind the approach at Melbourne Athletic Development typically follows a structure of:
Pain Modification (This may include input from other health professionals)
- Initiation of low intensity activity (pool, bike, walking)
- Rehabilitation of deficits identified (Range of Motion, Strength, Speed, Power, Strength Endurance, Movement Bio-mechanics, Repeat Sprint Ability)
- Graded return to full activity
Contributors to Hamstring Strain Injury
Significant time and money has been invested into the investigation of the major contributors to hamstring strain injury risk, with modifiable factors such as hamstring strength (particularly eccentric function), exposure to high speed running and running technique identified as potential risk factors. Previous hamstring strain injury and age appear to be the two most significant non-modifiable risk factors for further hamstring strain injuries when participating in high speed running or change of direction activities. Depending upon the location, severity of symptoms and timeline for return, imaging and consequent surgical review may be of value in the management of high grade hamstring injuries, particularly those that have demonstrated significant damage to the hamstring tendon structures. The staff at Melbourne Athletic Development will be able to guide you on whether further investigation is required for your hamstring strain injury.
For some more information and commentary on hamstring injuries see the following blogs.
Physiotherapy
We work closely with you using state of the art equipment to Assess, Diagnose and Rehabilitate your injury to return you to activity as soon as possible
Rehabilitation
We work closely with you using state of the art equipment to design and implement a rehabilitation plan for your injury with the aim of returning you back to activity as soon as possible.
Sports Team Physiotherapy Coverage
We have extensive experience working with sporting clubs, schools and elite athletes in the sporting setting. We offered tailored physiotherapy coverage for your athletes in your setting.
Online Injury Reduction Programs
We have created online injury reduction plans for patients that cannot attend the clinic and complete in person training. Just because you are not in our location does not mean your training should suffer. Click to learn more
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